Baked Cauliflower Mac and Cheese

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Baked Cauliflower Mac and Cheese is a delicious low-carb twist on the classic comfort food. By replacing traditional pasta with tender cauliflower, you get all the creamy, cheesy satisfaction without the heaviness. It’s a great option for keto diets, gluten-free eaters, or anyone looking to sneak more veggies into their meals—all without sacrificing flavor.

ingredients

this Recipe

Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.

cauliflower floretscheddar cheesemozzarella cheesecream cheeseheavy creambuttergarlic powderonion powdersaltblack pepperpaprika (optional)Parmesan cheese (for topping)

directions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish.

Steam or boil the cauliflower florets until fork-tender, about 5–7 minutes. Drain well and pat dry with paper towels.

In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.

Add cream cheese and heavy cream, stirring until smooth and melted.

Mix in the cheddar and mozzarella cheese, stirring until fully melted into a creamy sauce.

Combine the cooked cauliflower with the cheese sauce and toss until evenly coated.

Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish.

Top with grated Parmesan and a sprinkle of paprika if desired.

Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and lightly golden.

Let cool slightly before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 4–6 servings.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 25–30 minutes
Total time: about 35–40 minutes

Variations

Add cooked bacon bits for a smoky crunch.

Mix in chopped jalapeños for a spicy kick.

Use a blend of cheeses like gouda, gruyère, or Monterey Jack.

Top with crushed pork rinds or almond flour for a keto-friendly crunch.

Stir in cooked chicken or ground beef to turn it into a full meal.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes or in the microwave until hot.
For longer storage, freeze in portions and reheat from frozen as needed.

FAQs

Is this recipe keto-friendly?
Yes, it’s low in carbs and high in fat, making it perfect for keto diets.

Can I use frozen cauliflower?
Yes, just thaw and drain well before using to avoid excess moisture.

Will kids like this version?
Most kids enjoy the cheesy flavor—even picky eaters often don’t miss the pasta.

Can I make it ahead of time?
Absolutely—assemble ahead and bake when ready to serve.

How do I keep it from being watery?
Dry the cauliflower thoroughly after cooking to avoid excess moisture.

Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?
You can, but heavy cream creates a richer, thicker sauce.

What’s the best cheese for melting?
Cheddar and mozzarella melt well and offer great flavor and texture.

Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, all ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

Can I skip baking and just serve it stovetop?
Yes, it can be enjoyed right after mixing the cheese sauce and cauliflower.

Can I add breadcrumbs on top?
Traditional breadcrumbs can be used if not low-carb; use a gluten-free or keto-friendly option as needed.

Conclusion

Baked Cauliflower Mac and Cheese is the perfect blend of comfort and nutrition, offering a creamy, indulgent dish with fewer carbs and more veggies. It’s a crowd-pleaser that fits into a variety of diets while satisfying your craving for something cheesy and warm. Make it once, and it might just become your new favorite comfort food swap.

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